FAQ’s
What is a shell scheme?
The walls that are set up to create booths at an exhibition are called the shell scheme. They are made from upright aluminium poles, connecting aluminium beams and foamex panels slotted in between.
Can you fix prints to walls at exhibitions?
Yes, but you can not use anything that will damage the poles or panels, this includes adhesive tapes that may leave a residue, screws, nails and staples. There are several solutions but the only one patented for seamless foamex panels and stretched fabric is made by a UK company called Shell-Clad Ltd. Fortunately we are affiliated with them and all our solutions are reusable and do not damage the poles or shell scheme panels.
Are there different types of shell scheme?
There are a lot of different types of shell scheme. The most common are Octanorm, Sodem and Complete. There are also variations based on these including Edge, Quad and another called Click. Remember that whoever you use to print your graphics might have a different solution for attaching the graphics which will mean that your artwork sizes may vary from the actual size of the shell scheme.
Do you need to use the official or preferred supplier at an exhibition?
You do not need to use the organisers preferred supplier. You can use whoever you like to print, deliver and install your graphics, flooring, furniture and AV. However, there are some exceptions eg. electrical access and wifi may need to be purchased seperately because it is via the venue, who obviously do have exclusivity on that.
Can I use my own supplier at an exhibition?
Absolutely. In fact we encourage it. Using your own exhibition printer and/or installer will offer you a far superior service, lower prices and smoother exhibition experience. They can deal with (and know) all the problems you may see as a barrier, but we see as part of our everyday process.
Who are the preferred suppliers at ExCel, Olympia and NEC?
You can use any supplier at these venues. Shell-Clad has over 25yrs experience of delivering and installing graphics at ExCel, Olympia and NEC. We even have our very own account with Voyage Control (the logistics management system that controls traffic in/out of all of these sites)
What are the cheapest options for shell scheme graphics?
This is completely subjective as cheapest is quite often a false economy! You are representing your company at an exhibition opposite your competition and need to do it justice. You only have a few seconds to grab visitors attention, make a first impression and convince them that they want to to do business with you rather than anyone else. It doesn’t need to cost the earth to look professional at a show.
What are the walls called at exhibitions?
The walls are called shell schemes, but there are different types of shell scheme depending on which contractor the organiser has done a deal with. Ask the organiser to confirm the name of the shell scheme then ask us for the spec sheet and artwork guides.
What are the sizes for shell schemes?
These can vary depending on who you use to print your graphics. We have the spec sheets for every different type of shell scheme. So, if you know the name of the one that is being used at your exhibition then please get in touch and ask us for the spec sheet and sizes we require the artwork to be set.
Is the exhibition / organisers preferred supplier the cheapest?
No, they are usually substantially more expensive. The preferred supplier gives the organiser a lower price for the shell scheme in exchange for having exclusivity on the Exhibitor Portal, getting regular updates to the exhibitor list contact details and a higher prices for exhibitors graphics. Unfortunately some exhibitors will still choose this option for the perceived belief that it is easier, cheaper and the preferred supplier is the only one allowed on-site during the build, all of which is untrue.
What is the difference between space only and shell scheme booths?
Space Only stand is literally the space at an exhibition. “Shell Scheme” stands means that you get a package, usually this includes walls around your stand and carpet. At most venues it does not include any graphics, furniture or electrics although package deals may be available. Even if you are surrounded by shell scheme exhibitors, the organiser may well stop you from applying graphics to the walls if you have booked “space only”. It is your responsibility to provide any structures in a Space Only stand.
What are the different types of scheme schemes called?
The most common shell scheme types are Octanorm, Sodem and Complete. Edge and Quad are variants of these and use a square profile pole in the aisle creating a higher quality look. There is an older system called Click which some companies use and then there is Trad or Traditional which is made from chipboard and painted white.
How to design exhibition stand booth graphics?
Keep it simple. You’ve got 3 seconds to catch attention as the delegate eyes up, calculates and assess the value of your product/service. Create an environment they want to be in, project a punchy statement in as few words as possible. The job of the walls is to create that environment, the job of the stand staff is to explain what you do and how you do it. Do NOT confuse this or you will fail.
How do you fix stuff to a shell schemes?
We use Shell-Clad clips. They are the only UK & EU patented clips authorised to be used at venues that do not damage the shell scheme panels or poles. If you are going to use tapes and / or velcro, be sure to budget for fines after the Breakdown if there is any damage or glue residue left on the shell scheme. Exhibitions where GES are involved are particularly notorious for this and send out “spotters” during Build Up to note who and how you are attaching your graphics. They often make notes and take contact details of exhibitors. Our solutions avoid all those inconvenient problems and fines.
What is Breakdown?
Breakdown is the bit after an exhibition where you have to take everything away... And you DO have to take everything away!
Since 2024 more and more organisers have had to enforce this rule because the shell scheme contractors are charging them ever more increasing prices for disposal of left over graphics and parafinalia.
It is now cheaper to get an exhibition logistics specialist to collect and deliver/store your graphics than it is to leave them at the expo, rather than pay the disposal charges/fine